Seniors, disabled being forced into the streets; who will help them?

For over 20 years, I have lived in an apartment complex for seniors and others with disabilities. Thus far, thanks to help from the Salem Housing Authority and other agencies, I have been able to stay here.

However, others have not been able to, and have had to move on.

I see these seniors and disabled people living in shelters, under bridges, or at the Union Gospel Mission. Now it is being filled to capacity, needs to build a new facility, and I read of complaints stating it isn't needed.

This month, my rent went up $46, my electric bill went up, but my Social Security didn't. Without help from my brother, it would be a struggle to stay here.

But I'm going to make it. My concern is for the dear seniors who won't. What is going to become of them? We have new apartment complexes going up, but who can afford them?

I think it's time our city and state government "wake up and smell the coffee," as Ann Landers used to say.

They need to start doing something to help these dear people, many of who have lived and worked here most of their lives.